Ford Mustang GT 5.0 Review and Performance Analysis

 The Ford Mustang GT 5.0 isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. With its thundering V8, aggressive stance, and unmistakable presence, it’s the modern embodiment of American muscle. But in a world moving quickly toward electrification, how does this old-school beast hold up? We spent time behind the wheel to find out.

Engine and Powertrain: The Heart of the Mustang

The Legendary 5.0L Coyote V8

At the center of the Mustang GT’s identity is its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, which roars to life with 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque (486 hp with the optional active exhaust). It’s raw, thrilling, and unfiltered in the best way possible.

The throttle response is sharp and immediate. Step on it, and the V8 delivers a symphony of power that builds with each gear. The engine is happiest between 3,000 and 7,000 rpm, where the Mustang truly comes alive and shoves you into your seat with satisfying force.

Transmission Options

You have two transmission choices: a 6-speed manual for purists or a 10-speed automatic that shifts quicker than you’d expect from a muscle car. The manual offers a mechanical, hands-on driving experience that rewards precision, while the 10-speed auto is ideal for faster track times and smoother highway cruising.

Driving Experience: Muscle Meets Modern

Acceleration and Straight-Line Power

The Mustang GT sprints from 0–60 mph in just 4.2 seconds with the automatic transmission (slightly more with the manual). The powerband is wide and usable, making it fun whether you're launching from a stop or accelerating hard onto a freeway.

The available active exhaust system adds a layer of drama, growling quietly in Normal mode and snarling like a beast in Sport or Track mode. It’s not just noise—it’s part of the experience.

Handling and Control

While the Mustang GT is built for straight-line speed, it’s no slouch in the corners. Thanks to its independent rear suspension, available MagneRide adaptive dampers, and a well-tuned chassis, the car feels planted and surprisingly agile.

Turn-in is responsive, body roll is minimal, and grip levels are high—especially with the Performance Pack that includes upgraded tires, bigger brakes, and limited-slip differential. It still feels like a big car, but one that knows how to dance when pushed.

Interior and Technology: Retro Vibes, Modern Tech

Cabin Design

Inside, the Mustang GT balances old-school charm with modern functionality. The layout is driver-centric, with aviation-inspired toggle switches, a thick leather-wrapped steering wheel, and optional Recaro sport seats that hug you tightly through corners.

The materials are a mix of soft-touch plastics and leather in higher trims. It won’t fool you into thinking it’s a luxury car, but it’s far from bare-bones.

Digital Cluster and Infotainment

New for 2024–2025 models, the Mustang GT offers a fully digital 12.4-inch instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch infotainment screen running Ford’s SYNC 4 system. It’s bright, responsive, and customizable. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the optional B&O premium sound system brings serious volume for your road trip playlist.

Real-World Use and Comfort

Daily Driving and Ride Quality

For a muscle car, the Mustang GT is impressively livable. The ride, while firm, is more composed than you'd expect, especially with MagneRide equipped. It’s happy commuting in traffic, but ready to rip when the road opens up.

Visibility out front is good, but the rearward view is a bit compromised due to the coupe design. Trunk space is surprisingly generous for a performance coupe, and the back seats… well, they exist, but only kids or small adults will find them usable.

Fuel Economy

Let’s be honest—you don’t buy a Mustang GT for fuel savings. But it manages 15–16 mpg city and 24–25 mpg highway, which is decent considering the size and power of the V8 under the hood. The 10-speed helps with highway cruising by keeping revs low at speed.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Brutal V8 power with a classic sound

• Sharp handling for a muscle car

• Available manual transmission

• Modern tech meets retro charm

• Daily-drivable without compromise

Cons

• Rear seat space is tight

• Fuel economy is average at best

• Interior quality is good, not great

• Not ideal for snowy climates without proper tires

Final Verdict: A True Muscle Icon, Refined for Today

The Ford Mustang GT 5.0 is everything you want in a modern muscle car. It’s loud, fast, fun, and surprisingly refined. While it pays tribute to its roots, it embraces enough modern tech and performance upgrades to feel completely current in 2025.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend toy, a daily dose of adrenaline, or a statement piece with a soul, the Mustang GT delivers. And it doesn’t just deliver speed—it delivers emotion, something most cars simply can’t match.

If you’re still a believer in the V8 dream, this Mustang is your loud, proud, unapologetic ride into the sunset.